Kechi BZA approves variance for Lot 3 to allow enclosed EV charging/parking building with landscaping condition

The Kechi Board of Zoning Appeals voted to grant variance BZA‑V‑2026‑02, allowing the applicant to reduce the west front‑yard setback to 0 feet and increase the south side‑yard setback to 35 feet for Lot 3 in the Prairie Creek Commercial Addition. The board adopted the zoning administrator’s findings and recommendations, adding a condition requiring landscape screening along the park/residential sides.

Zoning Administrator Dustin presented the request and described the lot as a flag or landlocked parcel with shared access (Reserve A) to Oliver Street, adjacent to a city park. He said drainage rock encroaches on the northeast corner, that a 10‑foot utility easement runs along the northeast and west lot lines (effectively 10 feet on each side), and that the proposal would preserve the 35‑foot setback along the new front yard location rather than eliminate setbacks entirely. Dustin recommended approval if the five statutory variance criteria were met.

During deliberations, board members asked about drainage, the location of existing concrete and access drives, and how screening and lighting requirements in the zoning regulations would be applied. One board member moved to adopt the zoning administrator’s report and grant the variance; the motion was seconded and amended to add landscape screening conditions. The board voted in favor and the motion carried.

The chair read the statutory appeal language, noting that orders of the Board of Zoning Appeals are final for administrative review and may be appealed to the Sedgwick County District Court within 30 days. The variance approval included the screening condition; staff said engineering and building‑permit review would address drainage and technical site design details going forward.